Plastic vs. Metal Mountain Bike Pedals

There are many important decisions to make for your mountain bike – like choosing between plastic and metal pedals. Both materials have their own advantages. Mountain bikes these days are mostly sold without pedals, because every rider has their own preference and there are so many options out there. So it’s one of the first choices you’ll have to make when you get a new bike. What’s right for you depends on your riding style, along with your budget. Let’s compare so you can decide.

Full Plastic Mountain Bike Pedals

Full plastic pedals are made of molded plastic. They’re a budget, entry-level option.

Pros

• Full-plastic pedals are super affordable. They’re good for those with a tight budget.
• They’re lighter and quieter than metal pedals, and come in a lot more color options.
• Full-plastic pedals are easier to clean and maintain than more complex engineered metal ones
• Best of all, they won’t shred your pants or shins if you fall on them since they aren’t as sharp.

Cons

• Basic plastic pedals typically come with unsealed bearings, which aren’t as durable.
• Grip, grip, grip. Plastic pedals with plastic pins don’t offer much grip, and the pins tend to wear down pretty fast.
• Because they’re cheaper, you can just replace them.

Composite Pedals with Metal Pins

Composite mountain bike pedals are made of plastic composites that include nylon or other materials to make the plastic stronger. They’re newer to the market than either full plastic or metal options. They’re a real option for serious mountain bikers.

Pros

• Grip! The metal pins make them worlds grippier than full-plastic pedals, and usable even on super technical trails.
• Modern composite materials are usually much more durable than basic plastic.
• You can replace the metal pins.
• They’re lighter than full-metal pedals.
• They’re significantly more affordable than metal alloy mountain bike pedals.

Cons

• Modern engineering has made composite pedals durable and robust. But they’re still not as stiff as metal, and they wear out faster.
• They don’t look as good as metal, although that’s also a personal preference.
• Same as with alloy petals, the metal pins on these can do serious damage

Metal Mountain Bike Pedals

Metal or alloy bike pedals are the higher-end, more expensive option compared to plastic or composite pedals. High-end brands usually focus on alloy pedals. For example, Yeti Cycles lists three different aluminum pedal options from different manufacturers under their components selection.

Pros

• Metal is stiffer and more durable than plastic and gives more control and power transfer, and better overall performance. They’re made from aluminum alloy or stainless steel to handle impacts and strikes wear better than plastic.
• You also get superior grip because of metal pins or other parts. Also, metal pedal is usually designs engineered for maximum grip. This is ideal for wet or challenging conditions. If you want the best possible grip, get metal pedals with pins or a clipless system.
• They usually have sealed bearings in them, which makes them last longer.
• The pins are usually replaceable.
• If you want a good looking bike, metal pedals to look a lot better!

While metal pedals are more expensive, they’re still favored by more experienced riders and racers.

Cons

• They’re generally heavier and noisier than a plastic set. But you might not notice or care.
• The metal pins can do serious damage to your pants or legs if you fall on them or bang your shin on them. If you’re riding on really challenging trails or doing a lot of tricks on a pump track, you might want to wear shin guards.
• Finally, they’re more prone to scratches, scuffs and corrosions. And often require more lubrication and maintenance over time.

Buy Plastic or Metal Bike Pedals at Our Shop

Get your own plastic or metal bike pedals at Airpark Bike Co. We’ll help you find a perfect set!